How to Choose the Best Double Stroller
If you're looking for a double stroller there are plenty of options. To help you select the right one for your family, we talked to experts in child development as well as mom Katie Billingsley.
It is recommended to choose a stroller that is easy to fold, push and carry. Consider a model that can accommodate two infant car seats or a toddler as well as an adult rider board.
Safety
If you want to keep your children secure on your walks, look for a double stroller with features like all-terrain tires as well as a hand-operated brake. These wheels and brakes will help you navigate trails as well as sidewalks, gravel, and other paths without your children falling or slipping away. The best double strollers also come with plenty of storage space for gear as well as kid-sized necessities like snacks and toys.
The first step in selecting the right double stroller is to determine how old your children are and how far apart they are. Most double strollers can only allow one child seat, however, those are available in different configurations, so you can select the seating option that best suits your kids and your lifestyle.
The classic doubles are great for children of similar age who want to play. Some models have a double-decker style, allowing you to place one seat above the other or even attach an extra rider board for older siblings. Newborns can either be snuggled in a bassinet that is attached to the frame, or with an attachment that lets you play peek-a-boo with your baby. If you are expecting twins or already have twins and want to have a twin stroller, it is the best choice.
For families who are more adventurous consider double strollers that can take on off-road terrains or even hike. A lot of these strollers were developed with active parents and their children in mind. They come with features that let you take them on any trip, no matter how rough or high the climbs may be.
In addition to all-terrain tires, the top double strollers feature thoughtful features that make getting around tough terrain and weather easier. This jogging stroller, for instance, features a wrist loop, so you can make sure your child is safe when going downhill at a higher speed or in extreme weather conditions. It also features a canopy that covers the entire area and has ventilation to ensure your children stay comfy in the summer heat.
If you're looking to purchase a light compact double stroller, look at this model from Joovy. It weighs in at just over 23 pounds, making it lighter than most single strollers, and ideal for air travel or storing in overhead compartments or trunks. Plus, it has a large storage basket and a one-step linked parking brake that is simple to use.
Seating
Double strollers today are sleeker and can be set up in many ways to fit your family. Some work as traditional side-by-side strollers while others--such as the Baby Trend Sit 'N Stand Double Stroller--function as a base for car seats, toddler seats or bassinets click into. They are available in various widths and weight limits, allowing children from birth through kindergarten.
A good double stroller will be easy to fold and move and allows you to adjust your handlebar height to ensure that you feel comfortable on all of your excursions. A good handlebar is easy to hold and will encourage you to walk in a safe manner (ask for advice from other parents). It should also have a variety of storage options that accommodate all the necessities you'll require for your kids.
If your twins have a similar age, a tandem stroller could be the best choice for your family. These models have seats that are side-byside, so you can talk to them each other and keep an eye on each of them at the same. They can also recline separately so that one child can nap while the other is awake and ready to go.
The downside to a twin stroller is that it can be wider than a single-occupant model and can make it difficult to navigate the aisles of shops, sidewalks, and narrow doorways. But for some families, the advantages are worth the extra size and effort.
If you're in the market for an ultra-compact double stroller, the UPPAbaby Vista Double is a great option. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double is a great choice for city dwellers due to its shock absorption capabilities, elegant design, and ability to accommodate two infant car seats. It also has an optional running board that can be used by older children who are mobile.
similar internet site -style double stroller like the Delta Children LX Stroller Side-by-Side is another alternative. This basic model comes with lots of space for seating and storage, plus sturdy wheels that can handle any terrain. It also has an umbrella with 50+ SPF and adjustable handlebars. But some parents say the seats are a little too low and they don't recline to a fully flat position, making it difficult for small children to be comfortable or reach their snack trays.
User-Friendliness
A double stroller is usually an investment you're likely to use for a long time. If you are in the market for a double stroller, be sure it is easy to use and clean. The top double strollers have been developed to be easy-to-use and come with many useful features.
For starters, all of the strollers we tested folded easily and compactly (with just one hand!). They are light and ideal for traveling. A lot of them fit into the majority of trunks and are checked at the gate on planes. Most of our testers also found that their strollers can be folded down smaller than single-seat versions. Some even had a carry strap.
If you're looking for a flexible double stroller that can grow with your family Look no further than the Valco Snap Duo Trend. This side-by-side stroller can be used with infant car seats, a bassinet, and other accessories, meaning you can use it from birth until the age of preschool. Each seat is equipped with a five-point harness and a large canopy that provides ample shade from the sun.
Another highly-regarded option is the Joovy Twin Roo. The stroller is light and extremely compact, measuring just 22 pounds and 26 inches wide when folded. The front seat reclines to a flat position and the back seat can be adjusted to fit every child. There's a huge storage basket and an easy, one-step linked parking brake that makes this stroller extremely simple to move and use.
The only downsides of the Joovy Twin Roo were minor and specific to this particular model. Kerry says that the packaging was enjoyable and clever, however it came in five boxes that can be a hassle to lug around. She also found the Genuis magnetic clasp to be somewhat difficult to use and it took a while before she could get it to work. She was happy with the stroller at the end and would highly recommend it.
Stores
Strollers are available in various sizes and designs and styles, including tandems (single-file seating), side-by-side doubles, and many that let you modify the layout using a car seat or bassinet attachment. Some come with rider boards that can be added for older siblings. They're not created equal. Some are light and easy to use, while others are bulky, heavy and difficult to fold.
If you are looking for a lightweight stroller that can accommodate two children, the Joovy Caboose Graphite is a great choice. It was the lightest option in our tests, weighing around 23 pounds and is also easy to fold, but it still has all of the features parents require to have a great time out with two kids.
The Vista v2 Double from UPPAbaby is a different model that our testers loved particularly for its sleek design and easy to use. It can accommodate two infant car seats, or a toddler's bassinet and seat without the need for adapters. Its rear seat can be removed to turn it into a quad or triple stroller. It has a huge storage basket and can be upgraded to include an organizer for parents with wheels for all-terrain and side storage bags.
Billingsley says that the best double stroller for toddlers is one that offers various options for customization, such as the ability to remove a seat or a bassinet. That's because toddlers often have limited endurance, and a stroller with a bassinet attachment will provide them with a safe spot to take a nap. She says that a double stroller must also have a comfortable harness and recline position and plenty of storage space for snacks and toys.
The ZOE Twin+ is popular among parents due to its lightness and flexibility. It's gate-check-friendly on airlines and fits through the majority of doorways (without removing the wheels on the front), and can be expanded into a quad or triple stroller by adding an add-on tandem. Its nearly-flat, independently reclining seats, extra-long sun canopies and footrests that can be adjusted are other highlights, while its large underseat storage basket and inclusion of parent and kid cup holders complete the impressive set of features. Taylor states that the only disadvantage is that it has a a large footprint when folded, and is difficult for parents to stow.